If you are looking for a truly decadent treat to brighten anyone’s day, this Peanut Butter Brownies Recipe is your new best friend. With the irresistible richness of creamy peanut butter blending perfectly with a tender, chewy brownie base, every bite delivers a burst of nutty sweetness balanced by just the right amount of chocolatey goodness if you add those optional chips. This recipe is not only easy but also delightfully comforting, making it a go-to dessert that feels both cozy and indulgent all at once.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a handful of simple yet essential ingredients is all it takes to whip up these luscious peanut butter brownies. Each one plays a key role in building layers of flavor, texture, and that beautiful golden-brown color that makes these bars so inviting.
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter: Choose a smooth, natural-style peanut butter for the best creamy texture and true peanut flavor.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Provides the perfect sweetness that balances the peanut butter’s richness.
- 2 large eggs: These bind everything together and give the brownies a moist, chewy consistency.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, fragrant note.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Just enough to add structure without making the brownies heavy or cakey.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: A pinch helps lift the flavors and keeps the sweetness in check.
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional): For those who want an extra layer of melty chocolate bliss in every bite.
How to Make Peanut Butter Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your brownies will bake evenly. Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Mix Peanut Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter and granulated sugar. Stir until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy, laying the foundation for wonderfully rich brownies.
Step 3: Incorporate the Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to fully incorporate them. Then stir in the vanilla extract to boost the sweet, nutty aroma of the batter.
Step 4: Fold in Flour, Salt, and Chocolate Chips
Gradually add the flour and salt, folding them into the batter just until combined. Avoid over-mixing to keep those brownies tender. If you’re using chocolate chips, gently fold them in now to distribute sweet pockets of melted chocolate throughout.
Step 5: Spread Batter in Pan
Evenly spread the peanut butter brownie batter into your prepared baking pan, smoothing the top to ensure even baking and that perfect chewy crust.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the edges turn golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs clinging to it, signaling a perfectly fudgy interior.
Step 7: Cool Before Cutting
Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. This step sets the texture and makes serving neat, luscious bars so much easier.
How to Serve Peanut Butter Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a few chopped roasted peanuts or a light drizzle of melted chocolate on top for a textural contrast and an elegant finishing touch. A dusting of powdered sugar can also add a delicate sweetness and pretty presentation.
Side Dishes
These brownies pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, creating a warm and cold interplay that feels like a celebration. Fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream can also add freshness and lightness to balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your peanut butter brownies on a rustic wooden board for a cozy vibe, or stack a few with layers of peanut butter frosting for an irresistible dessert tower. Wrapping individual squares in parchment and tying with a ribbon makes them perfect for gifting or party favors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Peanut Butter Brownies Recipe squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps them soft and moist without drying out.
Freezing
You can freeze the brownies by wrapping individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to three months. Just thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to indulge again.
Reheating
Warm a brownie square for 10 to 15 seconds in the microwave to enjoy a freshly baked taste and gooey texture. Just be careful not to overheat, or they may lose their fudgy charm.
FAQs
Can I use natural peanut butter in this Peanut Butter Brownies Recipe?
Yes! Natural peanut butter works wonderfully. Just give it a good stir beforehand, as the oil may separate, and that helps maintain the creamy consistency in the batter.
Are chocolate chips necessary in this recipe?
Chocolate chips are optional but highly recommended if you love that extra chocolate hit. The brownies are delicious even without them, as the peanut butter flavor shines on its own.
Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend of equal measure, and ensure your baking powder and other ingredients are gluten-free certified.
How do I know when the brownies are done?
Look for golden edges and test with a toothpick. It should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter. This means the brownies will be fudgy and perfectly set.
What’s the best pan to use for this Peanut Butter Brownies Recipe?
An 8×8-inch baking pan works great as it yields thick, chewy brownies. Just be sure to grease or line it well to prevent sticking and help with easy removal.
Final Thoughts
This Peanut Butter Brownies Recipe is truly one of those joyful finds that you’ll want to make again and again. Its simplicity, combined with that rich, comforting peanut butter flavor, creates a dessert everyone will rave about. So grab your mixing bowl and get ready to delight yourself and your friends with some of the best brownies you’ll ever taste!
Print
Peanut Butter Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 brownies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Peanut Butter Brownies are a rich and fudgy treat combining creamy peanut butter and sweet sugar, baked to perfection with a soft, chewy texture. Easy to make with simple ingredients, they’re perfect for peanut butter lovers seeking a quick homemade dessert.
Ingredients
Brownie Batter
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to ensure the brownies don’t stick.
- Mix Peanut Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter and granulated sugar. Stir vigorously until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring the sugar is well incorporated.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Crack the eggs in one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition to blend completely. Then stir in the vanilla extract evenly.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually fold in the all-purpose flour and salt until just combined to avoid overmixing. If using chocolate chips, gently fold them into the batter now.
- Transfer Batter to Pan: Spread the prepared batter evenly into the greased or lined 8×8-inch baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached, indicating fudgy brownies.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the baked brownies from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan before cutting into 12 squares and serving.
Notes
- For a nutty crunch, consider adding chopped peanuts to the batter.
- Using parchment paper makes removal of the brownies easier and reduces cleanup.
- Ensure not to overbake to keep brownies moist and fudgy; check at 20 minutes.
- Chocolate chips are optional but add a delightful chocolate complement to the peanut butter.
- Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
